Props to John Howard Payne

"Mid pleasures and palaces though we may roam,
Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home;
A charm from the sky seems to hallow us there,
Which, seek through the world, is ne'er met with elsewhere.
Home, home, sweet, sweet home!
There's no place like home, oh, there's no place like home!"

Nearly 12,000 miles and 12 weeks later, we made it back in time for Common Ground Fair, that old mainstay of my past, present and future in my home state of Maine. I truly do love it here, at my home in Portland by the sea, with its vibrant arts, music, and social scene. And of course, the love of my life, Justin, who worked hard all summer campaigning for what would become a very successful run for the State Senate.

Even in my reflections nine months later, I am still amazed by the hospitality, generosity, and kindness of the many people we encountered on our journey. I KNEW Obama would win the election, just from the encounters I had with Americans across the country and the good vibes I felt in places both remote and urban.

Not only I have grown as a human being, but I feel truly blessed to live in such an incredible, diverse and gorgeous country. And 12 weeks was certainly long enough to satiate my travel bug.

For now. :)